TN Visa Eligibility for Librarians Under USMCA

Librarians, with their specialized skills in information management and research support, are among the various professionals who can qualify for TN Visa status under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA). This offers a unique opportunity for Canadian and Mexican librarians aiming to work in the United States.

Role of a Librarian for TN Visa Purposes

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), the role of a Librarian and Library Media Specialist involves:

• Assisting people in finding information and conducting research for personal and professional purposes.
• Organizing and managing library materials to ensure ease of access.
• Providing research assistance, evaluating search results, and referencing materials for library patrons.
• Researching and recommending new books and materials.
• Managing collections and selecting new items for acquisition.
• Planning and executing programs for various audiences, like children’s storytime.
• Educating on information resources and researching necessary technological equipment.
• Supervising library technicians, assistants, and volunteers.
• Handling administrative tasks, including library budgets.

In smaller libraries, librarians may oversee many aspects of operations, while in larger ones, they might specialize in areas like user services, technical services, or administration.

Qualifying for TN Visa as a Librarian

To be eligible for TN Visa status, librarians should meet these requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a Canadian or Mexican citizen (Permanent Residents do not qualify).
• Employment Offer: A job offer from a U.S. employer or a contract with a U.S. client is required.
• Role Alignment: Professional duties must be consistent with a Librarian as defined by the OOH.
• Educational Prerequisites: Possession of an M.L.S. or B.L.S., with another Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree as a prerequisite.
• Non-immigrant Intent: Applicants need to demonstrate the intent to return to their home country post-employment.

Certification Requirements for Librarians

For librarians, especially those in public schools, a teacher’s certification is typically necessary. Some states may require passing standardized tests, such as the PRAXIS II Library Media Specialist test. However, such certification is considered a post-entry requirement and is not essential for obtaining TN Visa status.

For Canadian and Mexican librarians, the TN Visa offers a streamlined avenue to apply their expertise in U.S. libraries. With proper qualifications and adherence to the outlined criteria, librarians can effectively pursue their professional aspirations in the United States under the TN Visa category.